JP5958448B2 - Solar cell control device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a solar cell control device.

  There is known a solar cell control device including a solar cell module in which a plurality of solar cells are connected in series to increase an output voltage. In such a solar cell control device, when the amount of light irradiated to some of the solar cells of the solar cell module decreases due to the influence of a shadow or the like, the current that can be supplied by the solar cells with the reduced amount of irradiated light Becomes smaller. Therefore, the current flowing through the other solar cells is also reduced to a current that can be passed through the solar cells with a reduced amount of light, and the power generation amount of the entire solar cell module is reduced. Therefore, the power generation amount of the entire solar battery module is kept high by bypassing the solar battery cell having a reduced power generation capacity.

  In addition, since the maximum output point of the solar cell module varies depending on weather conditions and the like, control called MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) is performed to maximize the power generated by the solar cell module. In MPPT, for example, the maximum output point of the PV characteristic curve (power voltage characteristic curve) is searched by a hill-climbing method. In MPPT, it usually takes several seconds to several tens of seconds to capture the maximum output point.

JP 2011-188653 A

  By the way, when the solar cell module is installed in the moving body, the amount of solar radiation changes with an early cycle (for example, about several tens of ms) due to the movement of the moving body. Also, if the PV characteristic curve fluctuates greatly by bypassing solar cells with reduced power generation capacity as described above, it takes more time than usual to capture the maximum output point with MPPT, or the maximum output There is a possibility that the point cannot be found.

  That is, when the solar cell module is installed in the moving body, even if a method of bypassing a solar cell having a reduced power generation capacity and MPPT are combined, it is not possible to follow the change in the amount of solar radiation in an early cycle. As a result, the amount of power generated by the solar cell module may significantly decrease during the movement of the moving body.

  This invention is made | formed in view of said point, and makes it a subject to provide the solar cell control apparatus which improved the followable | trackability to the maximum output point when the solar radiation amount to a solar cell module changes.

The solar cell control device includes a plurality of solar cell clusters that are juxtaposed in a direction crossing the traveling direction of the moving body and connected in series, and a bypass unit that bypasses the solar cell clusters with reduced light intensity. A solar cell module provided; a light amount detecting means that is disposed in front of the traveling direction of each of the solar cell clusters and that detects the amount of light applied to each of the solar cell clusters; and a maximum power point of the solar cell module Control means for determining, wherein the control means grasps a change in the number of solar cell clusters to be bypassed based on a change in the output of the light amount detection means caused by the movement of the moving body , Move to the start voltage corresponding to the number after the change, and calculate the power while changing the voltage from the start voltage after the move to determine the maximum power point of the solar cell module. And requirements to be.

  According to the disclosed technology, it is possible to provide a solar cell control device that improves the followability to the maximum output point when the amount of solar radiation to the solar cell module changes.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a solar power generation system according to a first embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the solar cell module and light quantity detection means which comprise the solar cell control apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates a mode that a shadow passes through a part of solar cell module 110 installed in the motor vehicle. It is a figure which illustrates the IV characteristic curve of the solar cell module. 3 is an example (part 1) of a flowchart showing the operation of the control means 150. It is an example (the 2) of the flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control means 150. 6 is an example (part 3) of a flowchart showing an operation of the control unit 150; 12 is an example (part 4) of a flowchart illustrating the operation of the control unit 150; 12 is an example (part 5) of a flowchart showing the operation of the control means 150. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the solar cell module and light quantity detection means which comprise the solar cell control apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is an example (the 6) of the flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control means 150. It is a figure which illustrates a mode that a shadow passes through a part of solar cell module 110A installed in the motor vehicle. It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which illustrates the solar cell module and light quantity detection means which comprise the solar cell control apparatus which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment. It is the schematic diagram which illustrates the solar cell module and light quantity detection means which comprise the solar cell control apparatus which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment (the 2).

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component and the overlapping description may be abbreviate | omitted.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a solar power generation system according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the photovoltaic power generation system 10 includes a solar cell control device 100, a generated voltage stabilization device 200, and a load control device 300. The solar cell control device 100 is a device that receives sunlight and generates power at a predetermined voltage.

  The generated voltage stabilization device 200 and the load control device 300 are devices that control the load of the solar cell module 110 that constitutes the solar cell control device 100. Specifically, the power generation voltage stabilization device 200 adjusts the load of the load control device 300 so that the power generation voltage of the solar cell module 110 matches a predetermined voltage.

  The load control device 300 includes, for example, a booster circuit and a step-down circuit (DC-DC converter). The load control device 300 has a function of equivalently changing the IV characteristic (voltage current characteristic) and the PV characteristic (voltage power characteristic) of the solar cell module 110 so that the electric power generated by the solar cell module 110 is maximized. The output voltage of the solar cell module 110 is controlled. The battery 400 is an object to which electric power is supplied from the solar cell module 110 via the load control device 300. Instead of the battery 400, power may be supplied to a capacitor, another device, or the like.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the solar cell module and the light amount detection means constituting the solar cell control device according to the first embodiment. The solar cell control apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. The solar cell control device 100 includes a solar cell module 110, a light amount detection unit 120, a voltage measurement unit 130, a current measurement unit 140, and a control unit 150.

The solar cell module 110 is a solar cell module installed in a moving body, and includes a solar cell cluster 112 ₁ , a solar cell cluster 112 ₂ , a solar cell cluster 112 ₃ , a bypass diode 113 ₁ , a bypass diode 113 ₂ , and a bypass. and a diode 113 _3.

The solar cell clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ are juxtaposed in a direction crossing the traveling direction of the mobile body (for example, a direction approximately orthogonal to the traveling direction) and connected in series. Each of the solar battery clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ is formed by connecting a plurality of solar battery cells 111 in series. The solar battery cell 111 can be composed of, for example, single crystal silicon or the like, but is not particularly limited. The solar cell clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ are referred to as solar cell clusters 112 when it is not necessary to distinguish them.

  In this embodiment, a case where three solar cell clusters 112 are connected in series will be described as an example. However, two or more solar cell clusters 112 included in the solar cell module 110 are connected in series. Anything that is good. Each solar battery cluster 112 may include one or more solar battery cells 111. In the present embodiment, the following description will be given by taking an automobile as an example of the moving body. However, the moving body is not limited to an automobile, and may be, for example, a motorcycle or a train.

A bypass diode 113 ₁ is connected to the solar cell cluster 112 ₁ in parallel. Similarly, the bypass diode 113 ₂ to the solar cell cluster 112 _2, the bypass diode 113 ₃ is connected in parallel to the photovoltaic cluster 112 _3. If there is no need to distinguish the bypass diode ₁₁₃ 1-113 ₃ is referred to as a bypass diode 113.

  The bypass diode 113 is a bypass means for bypassing the solar cell cluster 112 in which the amount of light to be irradiated is reduced. For example, when the output of the predetermined solar cell cluster 112 decreases due to the influence of a shadow or the like, the predetermined solar cell cluster 112 whose output has decreased is bypassed. By providing the bypass diode 113 and bypassing the predetermined solar cell cluster 112 whose output has been reduced, a reduction in the output of the entire solar cell module 110 can be minimized.

In front of the traveling direction of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ mobile, light amount detecting means 120 ₁ is disposed. Similarly, the light amount detecting unit 120 ₂ in front of the traveling direction of the moving body of the solar cell cluster 112 _2, light quantity detecting means 120 ₃ is disposed in front of the traveling direction of the moving body of the solar cell clusters 112 ₃ . As the light amount detection means 120 _{1 to} 120 ₃ , for example, a photodiode, a phototransistor, or the like can be used. As the light quantity detection means 120 _{1 to} 120 ₃ , a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a solar battery cell (small piece of solar battery cell) may be used. Note that the light quantity detection units 120 _{1 to} 120 ₃ are referred to as the light quantity detection unit 120 when it is not necessary to particularly distinguish them.

  By arranging the light amount detecting means 120 in front of the moving direction of the moving body of each solar cell cluster 112, the light amount irradiated to each solar cell cluster 112 can be detected. Specifically, it can be detected that a shadow that blocks the solar cell cluster 112 enters from the traveling direction of the moving body. The light amount detection result by the light amount detection unit 120 is transmitted to the control unit 150.

  The voltage measuring unit 130 has a function of measuring the voltage generated by the solar cell module 110. As the voltage measuring means 130, for example, a combination of a resistance voltage dividing circuit connected in parallel to the solar cell module 110 and an AD converter can be used. The voltage measurement result by the voltage measuring unit 130 is transmitted to the control unit 150.

  The current measuring unit 140 has a function of measuring the current generated by the solar cell module 110. As the current measuring means 140, for example, a combination of a shunt resistor connected in series with the solar cell module 110 and an AD converter, a current probe, or the like can be used. The current measurement result by the current measurement unit 140 is transmitted to the control unit 150.

  The control unit 150 determines the maximum power point (MPP: Maximum) of the solar cell module 110 based on information such as the light amount detection result by the light amount detection unit 120, the voltage measurement result by the voltage measurement unit 130, and the current measurement result by the current measurement unit 140. It has a function to determine (Power Point).

  The control unit 150 includes, for example, a CPU, a ROM, a main memory, and the like. Various functions of the control unit 150 are realized by reading a program recorded in the ROM or the like into the main memory and executing it by the CPU. However, part or all of the control means 150 may be realized only by hardware. Further, the control means 150 may be physically constituted by a plurality of devices.

  Next, the influence of the shadow on the solar cell module 110 will be described. Since the solar cell control device 100 is installed on the moving body, the solar cell control device 100 is affected by a light shielding object during movement. When the moving body is an automobile, examples of the light-shielding object include road signs, utility poles, pedestrian bridges, roadside trees, and other large automobiles.

FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which the shadow passes through a part of the solar cell module 110 of the solar cell control device 100 installed in the automobile 500. In the example of FIG. 3, the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ of the solar cell module 110 shadow passes through. That is, according to car 500 travels, shadow proceeds in the order of _{600 1 → 600 2 → 600 3} → 600 4, to shield the solar cell cluster 112 _1.

FIG. 4 illustrates an IV characteristic curve of the solar cell module 110. A is an example of characteristics when all of the _three solar cell clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ are not shielded from light. B is an example of characteristics when any one of the three solar cell clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ is shielded from light (when bypassed). C is an example of characteristics when any two of the three solar cell clusters 112 _{1 to} 112 ₃ are shielded from light (when bypassed).

  In FIG. 4, MPP3 indicates the maximum power point when there are three effective solar cell clusters 112 (when all solar cell clusters 112 are not bypassed). MPP2 indicates the maximum power point when there are two effective solar cell clusters 112 (one solar cell cluster 112 is bypassed and the other two solar cell clusters 112 are not bypassed). ing.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the solar cell cluster 112 ₁ is shielded from light, the bypass diode 113 ₁ conducts and bypasses the solar cell cluster 112 ₁ . As a result, the IV characteristic curve in FIG. 4 shifts from A to B. In this case, it can be detected that the amount of light irradiated to the solar cell cluster 112 ₁ by the light amount detecting means 120 ₁ decreases. Further, the results are sent to the control unit 150, control unit 150 may know that the photovoltaic cluster 112 ₁ is bypassed.

Incidentally, if, if a bypass diode 113 ₁ is provided, IV characteristic curve for 'maximum power point shifted to the MPP2' B from A becomes, resulting in a large power generation amount decreases as a whole solar cell module 110. In other words, since the bypass diode 113 ₁ is provided in the solar cell cluster 112 ₁ The solar cell module 110, the bypass diode 113 ₁ also the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ is shielded to bypass conducting. Therefore, the IV characteristic curve shifts from A to B and does not shift to B ′. As a result, it is possible to avoid a large decrease in power generation amount (efficiency decrease) as a whole of the solar cell module 110.

  The bypass diode 113 is provided for each solar cell cluster 112. Therefore, even when the other solar cell cluster 112 is shielded from light, the corresponding bypass diode 113 conducts and bypasses the solar cell cluster 112 that is a factor of efficiency reduction (shielded), so that the solar cell module 110 as a whole A large reduction in power generation (decrease in efficiency) can be avoided.

By the way, conventionally, in order to find the maximum power point, for example, a hill-climbing method using a PV characteristic curve has been used. In the hill-climbing method, if the operating voltage at the start is V ₀ and the power is P ₀ , the operating voltage is increased by ΔV to V ₀ + ΔV = V _1, and the power P ₁ at that time is calculated. Compare with ₀ . If P ₁ is larger than P _0, the sign of ΔV is not changed, the operating voltage is increased by ΔV to V ₁ + ΔV = V ₂ , power P ₂ at that time is calculated, and compared with P ₁ .

This is repeated until the direction of _{P n} than _{P n-1} is _reduced, by inverting the sign of ΔV when the direction of _{P n} becomes smaller than _{P n-1,} and _{V n -ΔV = V n-1} , the To calculate the power P _n-1 at the time (n is a natural number, and so on). As a result, it was found that there is a maximum power point between the operating voltages V _n−1 and V _n, and thereafter, the operating voltage V _n until the PV characteristic curve changes due to variations in the amount of solar radiation. back and forth between _-1 and _{V n.}

  However, the hill-climbing method of such an algorithm cannot instantaneously follow a sudden change in the PV characteristic curve. For example, when the maximum power point changes from MPP3 in FIG. 3 to MPP2 due to the influence of the shadow, the MPP2 is searched while changing the voltage by ΔV as described above, and therefore it takes about several minutes to catch the MPP2.

  In the present embodiment, by performing interrupt control, the followability to the maximum output point when the PV characteristic curve changes abruptly is improved. This will be described with reference to FIGS. The control means 150 of the solar cell control device 100 can execute the flowchart 1 shown in FIG. 5, the flowchart 2 shown in FIG. 6, the flowchart 3 shown in FIG. 7, the flowchart 4 shown in FIG. 8, and the flowchart 5 shown in FIG. It is configured.

First, the flowchart 1 shown in FIG. 5 will be described. The flowchart 1 is a flowchart when none of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , and 112 ₃ is shielded from light (when none is bypassed). Note that the control means 150 indicates that none of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , 112 ₃ is shielded from light (all of which are not bypassed), and that the light quantity by the light quantity detection means 120 ₁ , 120 ₂ , 120 ₃ . It can be known from the detection result.

First, in step S11, the control means 150 sets a start voltage. Since the approximate value (MPP vicinity value) of the maximum power point when three solar cell clusters are connected in series is determined by design, the value is defined as voltage V _{3_1} (starting voltage). Next, in step S12, the control unit 150, voltage _{V 3_1,} stores current _{I 3_1,} to calculate the power _{P 3_1.} The control unit 150 can obtain the voltage value from the voltage measurement unit 130 and the current value from the current measurement unit 140 (the same applies to the subsequent voltage and current).

The control means 150 stores in advance a plurality of start voltages corresponding to the number of solar cell clusters 112 that are not bypassed. That is, the start voltage when none of the solar cell clusters 112 is bypassed (the above voltage V _{3_1} ), the start voltage when any one of the solar cell clusters 112 is shielded from light (the voltage V _{2_1} described later), the sun A starting voltage (a voltage V _{1_1} described later) when any two of the battery clusters 112 are shielded from light is stored in advance. If the number of solar cell clusters 112 is n, the control unit 150 stores n start voltages in advance.

Next, in step S13, the control unit 150 stores the voltage V _{3_0 obtained} by changing the voltage V _{3_1} (starting voltage) by −ΔV and the current I _{3_0} at that time, and calculates the power P _{3_0} . Further, storing the voltage _{V 3_1} (starting voltage) to + voltage _{V 3_2} and the current _{I 3_2} at that time was ΔV is varied, calculating power _{P 3_2.}

Next, in step S14, the control unit 150, the power _{P 3_0,} power _{P 3_1,} and compares the power _{P 3_2,} selecting the maximum value. Next, in step S15, the control means 150 replaces the value of the power P _{3_1} with the maximum value selected in step S14. Thereafter, the maximum power point can be followed by repeatedly executing steps S12 to S15.

Next, the flowchart 2 shown in FIG. 6 will be described. The flowchart 2 is a flowchart when any one of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , and 112 ₃ is shielded from light and bypassed. That is, it is a flowchart when only two solar battery clusters are operating. The control means 150 knows from the light quantity detection result by the light quantity detection means 120 ₁ , 120 ₂ , 120 ₃ that any one of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , 112 ₃ is shielded and bypassed. Can do.

First, in step S21, the control means 150 sets a start voltage. Since the approximate value (MPP vicinity value) of the maximum power point when two solar cell clusters are connected in series is determined by design, the value is defined as voltage V _{2_1} (starting voltage). Next, in step S22, the control unit 150, voltage _{V 2_1,} stores current _{I 2_1,} to calculate the power _{P 2_1.}

Next, in step S23, the control unit 150 stores the voltage V _{2_0 obtained} by changing the voltage V _{2_1} (starting voltage) by −ΔV and the current I _{2_0} at that time, and calculates the power P _{2_0} . Further, the voltage V _{2_2 obtained} by changing the voltage V _{2_1} (starting voltage) by + ΔV and the current I _{2_2} at that time are stored, and the power P _{2_2} is calculated.

Next, in step S24, the control means 150 compares the power P _{2_0} , the power P _{2_1} , and the power P _{2_2} and selects the maximum value. Next, in step S25, the control means 150 replaces the value of the power P _{2_1} with the maximum value selected in step S24. Thereafter, the maximum power point can be followed by repeatedly executing steps S22 to S25.

Next, the flowchart 3 shown in FIG. 7 will be described. The flowchart 3 is a flowchart when any _two of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , and 112 ₃ are shielded from light and bypassed. That is, it is a flowchart when only one solar cell cluster is operating. The control means 150 knows from the light quantity detection results by the light quantity detection means 120 ₁ , 120 ₂ , 120 ₃ that any _two of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , 112 ₃ are shielded from light and bypassed. Can do.

First, in step S31, the control means 150 sets a start voltage. Since the approximate value (MPP neighborhood value) of the maximum power point when there is one solar cell cluster is determined by design, the value is defined as voltage V _{1 — 1} (starting voltage). Next, in step S32, the control unit 150, voltage _{V 1_1,} stores current _{I 1_1,} to calculate the power _{P 1_1.}

Next, in step S33, the control unit 150 stores the voltage V _{1_0 obtained} by changing the voltage V _{1_1} (starting voltage) by −ΔV and the current I _{1_0} at that time, and calculates the power P _{1_0} . Further, the voltage V _{1_2 obtained} by changing the voltage V _{1_1} (starting voltage) by + ΔV and the current I _{1_2} at that time are stored, and the power P _{1_2} is calculated.

Next, in step S34, the control means 150 compares the power P _{1 — 0} , the power P _{1 — 1} , and the power P _{1 — 2} , and _selects the maximum value. Next, in step S35, the control unit 150 replaces the value of the power P _{1_1} with the maximum value selected in step S34. Thereafter, the maximum power point can be followed by repeatedly executing steps S32 to S35.

Next, the flowchart 4 shown in FIG. 8 will be described. The flowchart 4 is a flowchart in the case where all of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ , 112 ₂ , and 112 ₃ are shielded from light and bypassed. That is, it is a flowchart when one solar cell cluster is not operating. The control means 150, that all of the solar cell clusters _{112 1,} 112 2, 112 ₃ is bypassed is shielded, can be known from the light amount detection results of the light amount detecting unit _{120 1,} 120 2, 120 ₃ .

  As shown in FIG. 1, the solar cell control device 100 is configured so that a load control device 300 that controls the load of the solar cell module 110 can be connected to the output unit of the solar cell module 110. In step S41, the control means 150 issues a command to open (open: no load) the load control device 300 (see FIG. 1). Specifically, for example, the control unit 150 issues a command to set the duty ratio of the booster circuit or the step-down circuit (DC-DC converter) included in the load control device 300 to zero%. With this command, the load control device 300 is opened. The command can be transmitted from the control means 150 to the load control device 300 via the generated voltage stabilizing device 200, for example.

  Next, the flowchart 5 shown in FIG. 9 will be described. A flowchart 5 is a flowchart of interrupt control. The control unit 150 grasps a change in the number of bypassed solar cell clusters 112 based on a change in the output of the light amount detection unit 120 and moves (shifts) to a start voltage corresponding to the changed number. However, when it is determined that all the solar cell clusters 112 have been bypassed based on the change in the output of the light amount detection unit 120, the control unit 150 issues a command to open (open) the load control device 300. .

Note that the control unit 150 can know the number of the light amount detection units 120 whose output is 1 from the light amount detection results obtained by the light amount detection units 120 ₁ , 120 ₂ , and 120 ₃ . Here, the output is 1 when the light is not shielded and the output is 0 when the light is shielded. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Hereinafter, specific steps will be described.

  First, in step S51, the control means 150 executes the flowchart 1 shown in FIG. When the output of the light quantity detection means 120 changes, it becomes an interrupt trigger, and the process proceeds to steps S81 and S82. In step S81, the control means 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1, and in step S82, the control means 150 determines whether the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative. .

  If it is determined in step S82 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative (in the case of Yes), the process proceeds to step S52, and the number (change) of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is determined. Shift to the start voltage corresponding to (the latter number), and execute the corresponding flowchart (any one of flowcharts 1 to 3). However, when the number of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is zero, the flowchart 4 is executed and a command to open the load control device is issued.

  Here, when the output of the light amount detection means 120 changes, it becomes an interrupt trigger, and the process proceeds to steps S83 and S84. In step S83, the control means 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1, and in step S84, the control means 150 determines whether the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative. . If it is determined in step S84 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is negative (in the case of Yes), step S52 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S84 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is not negative (in the case of No), the process proceeds to step S53 and waits for a shadow to pass (here, the flowchart to be executed). Does not change). Specifically, it waits for a predetermined time until the shadow passes through the solar cell cluster. The predetermined time during which the shadow passes can be obtained by calculation from the speed of the automobile and the length of the solar cell module 110 in the traveling direction of the automobile. After a predetermined time elapses, the process proceeds to step S85, where the control unit 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 and proceeds to step S51 or S52, corresponding to the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1. Execute the flowchart.

Here, the interrupt control will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. For example, it is assumed that the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 is executed with the start voltage set to the voltage V _{3_1 in} the state where the number of light quantity detection units 120 whose output is 1 is three (step S51 of the flowchart 5). Here, a shadow is generated in the solar cell module 110 by motor vehicle 500 established the solar cell module 110 is moved, for example, and becomes 600 ₁ in the state of FIG. In this case, since the output of the light amount detecting means 120 ₁ changes from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, steps S81 and S82 of the flowchart 5 is executed.

Since the control means 150 knows that there are two light quantity detection means 120 of output 1 based on the information from each light quantity detection means 120, it is determined in step S82 that the number change amount is negative, and the flow chart of FIG. Control goes to step S52. In step S52, the start voltage is shifted to the value of the voltage V _{2_1} in the flowchart 2 in FIG. 6, and the flowchart 2 in FIG. 6 is executed. In order to shift the start voltage, for example, the control unit 150 may change the duty ratio of the step-up circuit or step-down circuit (DC-DC converter) included in the load control device 300 via the power generation voltage stabilization device 200. . The time required for shifting the start voltage is, for example, about 1 ms.

Next, the shadow becomes 600 ₂ in the state of FIG. 3, the output of the light amount detecting means 120 ₁ changes from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, step S83 and S84 of the flowchart 5 is executed. In the case of FIG. 3, since the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 does not become negative, the process proceeds to step S53 in the flowchart 5 and waits for a predetermined time until the shadow passes through the solar cell cluster. That waits shadow 600 ₃ in the state of FIG. 3 until 600 ₄ in the state of FIG. 3.

After a predetermined time (600 ₄ states shadows 3), the process proceeds to step S85 of the flowchart 5. That is, since the control means 150 knows that there are three light quantity detection means 120 of output 1 based on the information from each light quantity detection means 120, the control means 150 moves to step S51 of the flowchart 5 and proceeds to the flowchart 1 of FIG. Execute.

  By performing such interrupt control, for example, even when the PV characteristic curve suddenly changes due to the influence of a shadow, the MPP control is resumed after shifting to a start voltage assumed to be near the maximum power point. The maximum power point can be captured in a shorter time than conventional. That is, it is possible to realize the solar cell control device 100 in which the followability to the maximum output point when the amount of solar radiation to the solar cell module 110 changes abruptly is improved. As a result, it is possible to realize the solar cell control device 100 that can suppress a decrease in power generation efficiency of the solar cell module 110 due to the influence of shadows.

  In the above example, the example in which the start voltage of the flowchart 2 of FIG. 6 is shifted during the execution of the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 is shown, but the flowchart 1 of FIG. 7 can be shifted to the start voltage of the flowchart 3 of FIG. 7 or the load control device open state of the flowchart 4 of FIG. 8 can be shifted. Similarly, based on the information from each light quantity detection means 120, during execution of the flowchart 2 of FIG. 6, the start voltage of the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 or the flowchart 3 of FIG. 7 is shifted to, or the load of the flowchart 4 of FIG. It is also possible to shift to the control device open state.

  Further, based on the information from the light quantity detection means 120, the processing shifts to the start voltage of the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 or the flowchart 2 of FIG. 6 while executing the flowchart 3 of FIG. You can also shift to an open state. Further, based on the information from the light amount detection means 120, the load control device open state of the flowchart 4 of FIG. 8 is shifted to the start voltage of the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5, the flowchart 2 of FIG. 6, and the flowchart 3 of FIG. You can also.

  When the solar cell module has n solar cell clusters, there are n flowcharts corresponding to FIGS. 5 to 7 and the flowchart of FIG. 8, and the light amount detection means 120 is controlled by the interrupt control of FIG. To the flowchart corresponding to the information from

<Second Embodiment>
In the second embodiment, an example in which the light amount detection unit is provided also in the rear of the moving body in the traveling direction will be described. In the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those already described is omitted.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating the solar cell module and the light amount detection means constituting the solar cell control device according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 10, a solar cell module 110A according to the second embodiment are that the light quantity detecting means ₁₂₅ 1 to 125 ₃ are added, the solar cell module 110 according to the first embodiment (FIG. 2).

The traveling direction of the rear of the solar cell clusters 112 ₁ mobile, light amount detecting means 125 ₁ is disposed. Similarly, the light amount detecting unit 125 ₂ in the traveling direction of the rear of the moving body of the solar cell cluster 112 _2, light quantity detecting means 125 ₃ are arranged in the traveling direction of the rear of the moving body of the solar cell clusters 112 ₃ . As the light amount detection means 125 _{1 to} 125 ₃ , for example, a photodiode or a phototransistor can be used. As the light quantity detection means 125 _{1 to} 125 ₃ , a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a solar battery cell (a small piece of solar battery cell) may be used. Note that the light quantity detection units 125 _{1 to} 125 ₃ are referred to as the light quantity detection unit 125 when it is not particularly necessary to distinguish them. The light quantity detection means 125 is a typical example of the second light quantity detection means according to the present invention.

  By arranging the light amount detection means 125 behind the moving direction of the moving body of each solar cell cluster 112, the amount of light irradiated to each solar cell cluster 112 can be detected. Specifically, it is possible to detect that a shadow that blocks the solar cell cluster 112 has passed behind the moving body in the traveling direction. The light amount detection result by the light amount detection unit 125 is transmitted to the control unit 150.

  Next, the flowchart 6 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. A flowchart 6 is a flowchart of interrupt control. The control unit 150 grasps the change in the number of bypassed solar cell clusters 112 based on the change in the output of the light amount detection unit 125, and moves (shifts) to the start voltage corresponding to the changed number. Hereinafter, specific steps will be described.

  First, in step S61, the control means 150 executes the flowchart 1 shown in FIG. When the output of the light amount detection means 120 arranged in the forward direction of the moving body changes, it becomes an interrupt trigger, and the process proceeds to steps S91 and S92. In step S91, the control means 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1, and in step S92, the control means 150 determines whether the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative. .

  If it is determined in step S92 that the number change amount of the light amount detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative (in the case of Yes), the process proceeds to step S62, and the number (change) of the light amount detection means 120 having an output of 1 is determined. Shift to the start voltage corresponding to (the latter number), and execute the corresponding flowchart (any one of flowcharts 1 to 3). However, when the number of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is zero, the flowchart 4 is executed and a command to open the load control device is issued.

  Here, when the output of the light amount detection means 120 arranged in the forward direction of the moving body changes, it becomes an interrupt trigger, and the process proceeds to steps S93 and S94. In step S93, the control means 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1, and in step S94, the control means 150 determines whether the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is negative. . If it is determined in step S94 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is negative (in the case of Yes), step S62 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S94 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 is not negative (in the case of No), the process proceeds to step S63 and waits for a shadow to pass (here, the flowchart to be executed). Does not change).

  Here, if the output of the light quantity detection means 125 arranged behind the moving direction of the moving body changes, this triggers an interrupt, and the process proceeds to steps S95 and S96. In step S95, the control means 150 confirms the number of light quantity detection means 125 whose output is 1, and in step S96, the control means 150 determines whether or not the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 125 whose output is 1 is negative. . If it is determined in step S96 that the number change amount of the light amount detection means 125 whose output is 1 is negative (in the case of Yes), step S63 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S96 that the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 125 with an output of 1 is not negative (in the case of No), the process proceeds to step S97, and the control means 150 causes the light quantity detection means 120 (with output 1) ( After confirming the number of light quantity detection means) arranged in front of the moving direction of the moving body, the process proceeds to step S61 or S62, and a flowchart corresponding to the number of light quantity detection means 120 having an output of 1 is executed. Note that the output of the light quantity detection means 125 changes from 1 to 0 and then changes from 0 to 1 when the light quantity detection means 125 is shaded by a shadow and then the shadow passes through the position of the light quantity detection means 125. Means.

Here, the interrupt control will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. For example, it is assumed that the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 is executed with the start voltage set to the voltage V _{3_1 in} the state in which the number of light quantity detection units having an output of 1 is three (step S61 in the flowchart 6). Here, a shadow is generated in the solar cell module 110A by motor vehicle 500 established a solar cell module 110A is moved, for example, it is assumed that became 600 ₁ in the state shown in FIG. 12. In this case, since the output of the light amount detecting means 120 ₁ which is disposed in front of the traveling direction of the moving body is changed from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, steps S91 and S92 of the flowchart 6 is executed.

Since the control means 150 knows that there are two light quantity detection means 120 of output 1 based on the information from each light quantity detection means 120, it is determined in step S92 that the number change amount is negative, and the flow chart of FIG. Control goes to step S62. In step S62, the start voltage is shifted to the value of the voltage V _{2_1} in the flowchart 2 in FIG. 6, and the flowchart 2 in FIG. 6 is executed. The method for shifting the starting voltage is as described above.

Next, the shadow becomes 600 ₂ in the state of FIG. 12, the output of the light amount detecting means 120 ₁ which is disposed in front of the traveling direction of the moving body is changed from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, step S93 of the flowchart 6 And S94 are executed. In the case of FIG. 12, since the number change amount of the light quantity detection means 120 with an output of 1 does not become negative, the process proceeds to step S63 in the flowchart 6 and waits until the shadow passes through the solar cell cluster.

Next, the shadow becomes 600 ₃ in the state shown in FIG. 12, the output of the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ arranged in the traveling direction of the rear of the moving body is changed from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, step S95 of the flowchart 6 And S96 are executed. 600 ₃ is determined number change amount in step S96 for the output of the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ is 0 until it passes the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ is negative, passing waiting shadow proceeds to step S63 Will continue.

Next, the shadow becomes 600 ₄ in the state shown in FIG. 12, the output of the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ arranged in the traveling direction of the rear of the movable body changes from 0 to 1, which is a trigger, step S95 of the flowchart 6 And S96 are executed again. Here it is determined that the number change amount in step S96 for the output of the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ is 1 are non-negative, the process proceeds to step S97 of the flowchart 6.

  That is, the control means 150 grasps that the shadow that blocks the solar cell cluster 112 has passed behind in the moving direction of the moving body (understands that there are three light quantity detection means for output 1), and the flowchart 6 Then, the process proceeds to step S61 and the flowchart 1 of FIG. 5 is executed.

  By performing such interrupt control, as in the first embodiment, for example, even when the PV characteristic curve suddenly changes due to the influence of a shadow, the start voltage is assumed to be near the maximum power point. Since the MPP control is resumed after the shift, the maximum power point can be captured in a shorter time than in the past. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in power generation efficiency of the solar cell module 110A due to the influence of shadows.

  Further, unlike the first embodiment, the light amount detection means 125 is arranged behind the moving direction of the moving body of each solar cell cluster 112, so that the control means 150 shades the solar cell cluster 112 from light. Since it can be grasped that the moving body has passed behind in the traveling direction, the start voltage can be shifted at a more accurate timing.

<Modification of Second Embodiment>
In 2nd Embodiment, the example which arrange | positions a light quantity detection means one each in the front and back of each solar cell cluster was shown. In the modification of the second embodiment, an example of a solar cell module provided with a solar cell cluster in which a plurality of light amount detection means are provided in front and rear, respectively, is shown. Note that, in the modification of the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the already described embodiment is omitted.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view illustrating a solar cell module and a light amount detection unit constituting a solar cell control device according to a modification of the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 13, the solar cell module 110 </ b> B according to the modification of the second embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that light amount detection means 120 _{4 to} 120 ₆ and 125 _{4 to} 125 ₆ are added. It is different from the solar cell module 110A according to the embodiment (see FIG. 10).

In front of the traveling direction of the first column of a mobile solar cell clusters 112 ₁ is arranged a light amount detecting means 120 _1, the light amount detecting means 125 ₁ is disposed in the rear. Further, in front of the traveling direction of the second row of mobile solar cell clusters 112 ₁ is arranged a light amount detecting means 120 _2, light quantity detecting section 125 ₂ is disposed in the rear.

Similarly, in front of the traveling direction of the first column of a mobile solar cell cluster 112 ₂ is arranged a light amount detecting means 120 _3, the light quantity detecting section 125 ₃ is disposed in the rear. Further, in front of the traveling direction of the second row of mobile solar cell cluster 112 ₂ is arranged a light quantity detecting section 120 _4, the light amount detecting means 125 ₄ are disposed in the rear.

Similarly, in front of the traveling direction of the first column of the moving body photovoltaic cluster 112 ₃ are arranged light quantity detecting section 120 _5, light quantity detecting section 125 ₅ is disposed rearwardly. Further, in front of the traveling direction of the second row of mobile solar cell clusters 112 ₃ are arranged light amount detecting means 120 _6, light quantity detecting section 125 ₆ is placed in the rear.

  By arranging the light amount detection means 120 in front of the moving direction of the moving body of each column of each solar cell cluster 112, it is determined for each column that the shadow that blocks the solar cell cluster 112 enters from the moving direction of the moving body. Since it can be detected, the shadow detection accuracy can be improved. Further, by arranging the light amount detection means 125 behind the moving direction of the moving body of each column of the solar cell clusters 112, the shadow that shields the solar cell cluster 112 has passed behind the moving direction of the moving body. Can be detected for each column, so that shadow detection accuracy can be improved.

  As described above, the light amount detection means 120 and 125 may be arranged for each column of the solar cell clusters 112 to improve the shadow detection accuracy. A plurality of light quantity detection means 120 and 125 may be arranged for each row of solar cell clusters 112 to further improve the shadow detection accuracy.

  However, in all the solar cell clusters 112, the light amount detection means 120 and 125 are not arranged for each column, but as shown in FIG. You may arrange. This is effective in the case where there is a space where only the light quantity detection means 120 and 125 are physically arranged one by one.

  Further, only the light amount detecting means 120 may be arranged for each column of the solar cell clusters 112 to improve the shadow detection accuracy. That is, as in the first embodiment, the light amount detection means may not be provided behind the moving body in the traveling direction.

  The preferred embodiment and its modification have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and its modification, and the above-described implementation is performed without departing from the scope described in the claims. Various modifications and substitutions can be added to the embodiment and its modifications.

10 Photovoltaic system 100 solar battery controller 110 and 110A, 110B solar cell module 111 solar cell 112 ₁ to 112 ₃ photovoltaic cluster 113 _{1-113 3} bypass diodes 120, 120 ₁ to 120 _{6, 125} 1 to 125 ₆ Light quantity detection means 130 Voltage measurement means 140 Current measurement means 150 Control means 200 Generated voltage stabilization device 300 Load control device 400 Battery

Claims (5)

A solar cell module provided with a plurality of solar cell clusters juxtaposed in a direction intersecting with the traveling direction of the moving body and connected in series, and a bypass means for bypassing the solar cell cluster with reduced light intensity,
A light amount detecting means disposed in front of each of the solar cell clusters in the traveling direction and detecting a light amount irradiated to each of the solar cell clusters;
Control means for determining a maximum power point of the solar cell module,
The control means grasps a change in the number of solar cell clusters to be bypassed based on a change in the output of the light amount detection means caused by the movement of the moving body, and moves to a start voltage corresponding to the number after the change. And the solar cell control apparatus which calculates electric power, changing a voltage from the starting voltage after movement, and determines the maximum electric power point of the said solar cell module. A second light amount detection unit disposed behind the solar cell cluster in the traveling direction and detecting the amount of light applied to the solar cell cluster;
The light amount detection means detects an increase in the light amount after detecting a decrease in the light amount of the predetermined solar cell cluster, and further, the second light amount detection means detects an increase in the light amount after the decrease in the light amount of the predetermined solar cell cluster. Is detected,
The control means grasps a change in the number of solar cell clusters that are not bypassed based on a change in the output of the second light quantity detection means, moves to a second start voltage corresponding to the number, and moves after the movement. The solar cell control device according to claim 1, wherein the maximum power point of the solar cell module is determined by calculating electric power while changing the voltage from the second start voltage. A load control device for controlling the load of the solar cell module is configured to be connectable,
Wherein, all of the solar cell clusters on the basis of an output of said light quantity detecting means when grasped that has been bypassed is according to claim 1 or 2 issues a command to open the load control device Solar cell control device.   4. The solar cell control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores in advance a plurality of start voltages corresponding to the number of solar cell clusters that are not bypassed. 5.   The solar cell control apparatus as described in any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4 provided with the solar cell cluster provided with the said some light quantity detection means.

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